Week 15: Online Education

I love online classes. If I can take almost all my classes online I would really do it but I think OU only allows certain classes to be online. I find these classes are easier and efficient. I'm not the type of person that enjoys going to class. I like to work in the comfort of my home or at a nice coffee shop, although some people say you will get lazy and slack off if you do online homework at home, that is not true for me. I am so productive that I find online classes to be easier and more convenient. I can go to work and come home and just sit on my laptop and start my assignment. I don't have to worry about finding parking at school and sit in classes when sometimes I can really be doing other things. I feel like online education keeps students busy and constantly doing homework. It helps you to be prepare and stay on track. Thats what I like about it. Honestly, if OU would offer more online classes I would take all of them.

Online Courses

Week 15: OU General Education

In my opinion, general education classes has its ups and downs. The good side of it is that it teaches students to become more well-rounded. I think that is why most college courses require students to take humanities and electives classes even though it is not part of their major. I remember having a discussion about this topic in my capstone political science class and one student argued that it is not necessary to take these courses... In a way it is part true and partially not. Some of these classes have interesting subjects and could be an advantage for us in the future, we just don't see it yet. However, is it worth the cost? That I don't know... For instance, I have to take a Chinese War class to graduate, would I be using this again in the future? Most likely not and was it worth the cost? Probably not... it is how the college system works.

I think my favorite gen ed classes would be anything that involves with women and gender studies. I have taken a lot of those classes in the past and I enjoyed all of them. I am interested in the topic and felt like it ties in with my major in some aspect. Other gen ed like our prerequisites during our freshman and sophomore year are probably not the most interesting classes but they are a good stepping stone to be prepare for your upper division courses.

Boomer Sooner

Week 15: College Writing Review

I struggled a lot in writing throughout my college years. When I went to Oklahoma City Community College my first two years of school. My writing was horrible and I knew it was not that great. However, when I transferred to OU my writing improved a lot. Since I am a political science major, there were a lot of reading and reading that were involved. Still, I struggled with writing and would usually get B or C on my research papers. I think writing was harder for me because most of my papers involved with analytical thinking and writing. Most of them are either philosophical and I would have to argue the thesis in my opinion. Although there are not right or wrong answers... it was hard to write a good and strong argument when you obtain so much information in one class. 

For me political science papers became easier as I reach the ending of my college career. It is because I had learned a lot throughout the years and the writing process became more smoothly and easier to write because well... I am more familiar with the topic.

However, one of my elective classes China Art of Warfare was extremely difficult. I was struggling in this class and it wasn't my major. The material was hard and so much to obtain in one semester. Most of the material involved with different dynasties and different emperors. The names were so confusing... writing the paper was so hard. I asked my professor for help and did endless research and most of the scholarly articles were in Chinese and even translating wouldn't be accurate. That was probably the worst paper I have to write throughout my college experience, but it definitely taught me to be more argumentative in my paper.

Art of Warfare 

Famous Last Words Week 14: Coming to an end

I can't believe this class is almost over... time flies... I really enjoyed Indian Epics and glad I took this class. We recently just nominated for the best storybooks and portfolios. I thought everyone did a great job and I'm glad I saw the ones I really liked won as one the the favorite projects. Everyone is so creative with their work! It's amazing!

Well... this week is going to be DEAD week. The worst week of all semesters in college... I am so not ready for exams or anything like that. My first exam is my capstone class this Thursday and I guess I'm ready? I'm more worried about my China Art of Warfare class... that class is so hard especially for an elective. Anyways... it will all be over soon and the week after that will be finals and graduation. I am so ready to be done with school.

I am looking for a job right now. I got a few calls back but still waiting for an answer and seeing if they pay enough. It sucks that college graduates don't get paid a lot but heyI guess we need more experience. I'm still debating on going to grad school and getting a masters degree but I don't know what degree I should get. I don't think I want to do political science anymore.

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about my college past since I'm about to graduate. I thought about changing my major and if I worked harder in school I would have probably done better or won't have to struggle. When I started out college, I was so passionate about being a political science major but after graduating with a political science degree. I felt like it wasn't worth it... this is my opinion though. It's so hard to find a good paying job with a political science degree honestly. Unless you are for sure going to law school then it is a good major to get into but other than that. it's really hard to find a good paying job. Political science had taught me to become a better writer and learn to do more critical thinking and analyzing. I also learned to not be bias and listen to both sides during debates but really... I just got tired of all it. In the end.. it's all about being passionate about what you're doing.

PSC Political Science

Portfolio Introduction

Hi! Welcome to my portfolio! These are all the stories I have written for Indian Epics class over the semester. I hope you enjoy reading them! Most of these stories are just my own wild imaginations and renditions of the original stories! Please take a look and read these stories... and comment!

Week 3 Storytelling: The Great Hanuman

Week 5 Storytelling: Bharata Returns

Week 9 Storytelling: Urvasi in Love

Week 13 Storytelling: Sikhandini and Sthuna

Week 14 Storytelling: Ashwatthaman as a Sacrifice

The night was dark and Ashwatthaman decided to raid the Pandavas camp site. He had wanted to enter the camp for the longest time and finally it was a good time to do it. However, he did not know that Krishna and the Pandavas were sleeping outside that night... He was caught by surprised... the camp was guarded by a white tiger that was a manifestation of Shiva.

"What is this? A white tiger!" said Ashwatthaman.

"I will kill this tiger! How dare this beast get in the way of entering the camp!" said Ashwatthaman.

Ashwatthaman then raised his sword and started to attack the tiger. The tiger dodged the sword and Ashwatthaman started chasing after the tiger. The tiger growled and swallowed Ashwatthaman's sword. He was surprised. How could this tiger just swallowed his weapon like that? He must be a god! 

Then the tiger started transforming into it's real figure. The tiger was the god Shiva... Ashwatthaman stood there with his eyes wide opened. He did not realize that it was Shiva. He felt embarrassed for trying to attack the almighty Shiva. 

"Oh almighty Shiva! I am so sorry for trying to attack you! I did not realize it was you! If I had known I would not have tried to kill you! I apologize..." said Ashwatthaman.

"How dare you try to attack me just to get inside of the Pandavas camp?! Did you not realize that I am more than just a tiger? When you tried to attack me, did you not see that I have abilities that a normal tiger doesn't have? What are you doing trying to raid the Pandavas camp?!" said Shiva

"I am sorry Shiva, I really did not realize that you were a god until you swallowed by sword. My stupidity had caused you to be angry with me. I am sorry. I am trying to get into the camp because I need to kill Krishna and the Pandavas! Let me kill them!" said Ashwatthaman.

"I cannot just let you kill Krishna and the Pandavas just like that. I am not going to let you enter this site unless..." said Shiva

"Unless?..."said Ashwatthaman.

"Unless, you sacrifice yourself to me. I want you to become my eternal slave. You will be under my control and everything you do will be under my command. You are to fulfill every mission I tell you to do. You will not question anything." said Shiva.

Ashwatthaman looked at Shiva. He thought to himself if he does not sacrifice himself than he will never be able to kill Krishna and the Pandavas. However, he did not want to be under the control of Shiva.. what should he do... 

Ashwatthaman thought for a very long time and decided to sacrifice himself as a slave to Shiva. 

"I have decided. I will sacrifice myself to you. You have my word." said Ashwatthaman.

"Very well, you shall enter the camp now." said Shiva.

Ashwatthaman entered the camp and killed Dhrishtadyumna, Sikhandin, and Panchala. He was ruthless and slaughtered every single one of them. After that Ashwatthaman decided to let Rakshasha to eat the remains of the dead warriors... Rakshasha entered the camp and started devouring the dead bodies. He was hungry... 

Ashwatthaman left the camp to bring news to Duryodhana. 

Rakshasha is hungry:  Hindu Demon

Author's Bibliography: I decided to do the story over Ashwatthaman and how he sacrificed himself to Shiva in order to kill Krishna and the Pandavas. He was so angry with them that he was willing to become an eternal slave to Shiva just to kill them. I chose a third person point of view with some dialogues between Shiva and Ashwatthaman.

Bibliography: William Buck Mahabharata 

Week 14 Reading Diary B: The End

p. 351-412

The book is coming to an end...and Bhishma and is waiting for the moment. There seem to be so many deaths in Indian epics. Ganga is upset and mourn for his son's death. Bhishma's ashes were poured in the Ganges river. Yud is sad and in despair and Bhima tried to cheer him up and he becomes the king.

Overall, the story of Mahabharata comes to an end. Compared to the Ramayana, I think I like Buck's version of Ramayana better even though I didn't enjoy the character of Rama much. The beginning of the Mahabharata was interesting especially about Ganesha. I just wished there were more stories about Ganesha. It was getting confusing when the Pandavas were in battle with everyone. I was getting so confused with the characters. They were either dying or coming back alive. I did thought the dice game was interesting and felt bad for Draupadi. She should not have been treated that way by the men. There was a lot going on towards the end but overall it wasn't a bad story.

 Battle Scene: The Mahabharata

Week 14 Reading Diary A: After the Battle

p.307-349

The part that interested me the most is the night raid and the survivors. So Ashwatthaman, I will call him Ash for short since the name is so long. So Ash decided to invade the Pandava camp but didn't realize that Krishna and the Pandavas decided to sleep outside that night... he chose a bad night to invade their camp. Ash tried to attack Shiva but Shiva swallowed his weapons. That caught me by surprised.. I did not know Shiva can just swallow weapons or items like that? How powerful is he? Then Ash goes and starts killing the armies led by king Draupada and then Rakshasas started eating the dead bodies? That is so gross!!! I was quite disturbed when reading that part in the book... couldn't be more disgusting.

Then the survivors all came together and that is how the Mahabharata was formed. They prepared funerals for the dead ones or those who lost the battle.

Fierce Ash fighting in the battle: Ashwatthaman

Week 13 Storytelling: Sikhandini and Sthuna

The day of Sikhandini and her wife's marriage was magical. Both of them were happy and loved each other. However, Sikhandini had been hiding a huge secret from her wife. Sikhandini was a woman in disguise as a man because of her father Shiva. After their marriage, Sikhandini planned on telling her wife about her true sexuality. She cannot hide it anymore especially not to her true love.

"My dearly beloved, I must tell you something very important and you will probably never look at me the same way again, but I love you so much that I must tell you... I am a woman" said Sikhandini.

Sikhandini's wife looked at her in disbelief and Sikhandini had to undress herself to prove that she was a woman. The wife looked at her and cried. 

"Please don't cry my love... I heard of a yaksha that could possibly change me into a man. We will be husband and wife." said Sikhandini.

The next day Sikhandini set out to find the yaksha Sthuna to see if he could change her into a man. She loved his wife so much she couldn't stand the pain her wife is going through. She should have told her before they got married or done something earlier about changing her gender, but it was too late. Sikhandini hoped that Sthuna will be able to change her into a man so she can make her wife happy. Sikhandini finally reached to Sthuna's house. She knocked on the door and it opened...

"Hello Sthuna, my name is Sikhandini and I heard that you can change me into a man. I want nothing more than to actually become a man. Please! Please! I want to make my wife happy for I am deeply in love with her. She wanted to leave me because I am a woman but I was taught my whole life to be a boy. Now I really want to change into a boy." said Sikhandini

Sikhandini started to break down and cried. She sat in front of Sthuna's door step because she was under so much pressure. She was taught to become a boy all her life and now finally she found a woman she loved but her love would not accept her for who she was.

"Don't cry Sikhandini. I will help you but I have to tell you that I cannot just change you into a man, but I am willing to trade gender with you. I have heard stories of how your father Shiva wanted a boy all his life and tried so hard to change you into a boy. You have struggled and tried to make him proud and now you have to suffer again when you finally found your true love. I cannot imagine the pain you are going through. I promise I will help you and we can switch gender." said Sthuna.

"However, we can only trade gender for a few years. I want to explore and learn what it is like as a female but I do not wish to become a female for the rest of my life. I will make you a promise and let you become a man so that you and your wife can bear a child. After that I will take my identity back. Is that clear?" said Sthuna.

"Yes! Thank you so much Sthuna! I promise you after our first child. I will come back and we can switch back to our original gender. If my wife leaves me when I become a woman again. At least I will have a child and hopefully a son to carry on the family name and make Shiva proud!" said Sikhandini.

"All right, well prepare for this spell I am about to prepare. It is a spell that will swap our gender. You will be in my body and I will be in yours. Our faces will remain the same but different features. This may be quite painful but if you are willing to do this I will start the spell now." said Sthuna.

"I'm ready" said Sikhandini.

Sthuna began chanting the spell... 

I decided to do a transgender symbol to go with my story because that is like what Sikhandini and Sthuna are going through.

Sikhandini and Sthuna

Author's Note: I decided to do the story over Sikhandini and Sthuna's transformation. I wanted to emphasize how desperate Sikhandini wanted to become a man. She was taught to be a man all her life and in order to please her wife she had to make the transformation. Sikhandini went through a lot of pain in her life to fulfill her father's dream of having a son. I wanted to emphasize the pain and suffering she went through being pressured to become a man her whole life. I also wanted to show how Sikhandini thought being a man could solve all her problems and that she was unhappy with her own gender. I felt like this story relates to many people who have gender identity issues and that is the reason why I chose this story. Sikhandini always thought of herself as a boy even though she knew she was a girl deep down. Since Sikandini thought of herself as a boy, she fell in love with a woman that her father arranged her with. In a way, I kind of blame Shiva for not accepting her as a girl and forcing her to be a boy. Whether or not she is happy being a boy or a girl it should be Sikhandini's choice and not Shiva. She was trained to be a boy and even fell in love with a woman. She would do anything for her love. Sthuna was nice and understood the pain Sikhandini was going through. He decided to grant her wish by trading gender with her but not forever. The transformation was only for a few years until Sikahandini is able to bear her own child.

Bibliography: William Buck Mahabharata 

Week 13 Reading Diary B: Sikhandini

p.247-305

The part of Amba's story caught my attention. Because Shiva wanted a male child so badly he raised his girl Sikhandini to be a boy and even arrange marriage her to a girl. Poor Sikhandini all her life she was taught that being a boy was better and wasn't value for own identity. Why is that most women in indian epics have to go through so much? Well Sikhandini's wife found that she was a female and begged Sthuna to change gender with Sikhandini. Sthuna is such a nice person and he was punished for his good deed by Vaishravana who was outraged that they switched genders. So he cursed Sthuna that he would remain a female until Sikhandini die.

I thought it was very brave and nice of Sthuna to switch genders with Sikhandini. I don't think he should be punished. If Shiva would have accepted that his "son" was actually a female then none of this would have happened. A parent should always accept their child for who he/she is no matter what. But this is indian epics and stories are different. Sikahandini was taught to be a boy all her life and so she thought being a boy was the best thing for her.

I think that was the best part in this section of the book. I wasn't appealed to the battle scene as much I thought I would. The duel between Karna and Arjuna was pretty cool but I didn't find it to be entirely exciting.

Draupada begs for a boy: Sikhandini

Week 13 Reading Diary A: Kichaka

p. 191-246

I thought the part of Kichaka and Draupadi was very interesting. Kichaka is such a pig for trying to assault Draupadi even though she warned him that she was protected by the gandharvas he would not listen and still tried to assault her. He deserved to be crushed by Bhima. He came to rescue Draupadi. I felt bad for Draupadi throughout the story especially in the die game. She was mistreated by all the men and don't seem to value her.

I also liked the part of Arjuna and Krishna. Krishna gave him an ultimatum to either make him as his ally or have all his soldiers. Krishna wanted Duryodhana to surrender half of his kingdom to the Pnadavas but he refused. The part where Krishna cut off Duhshana's head was intense and interesting when his body enter into Krishna's.

I also thought the Pandavas' decision to spend 13 years of exile in the Virata court in disguise was interesting. How can you spend 13 years in a disguise?! That is such a long time but they did it.

Kichaka trying to harass Draupadi: Kichaka 

Week 9 Storytelling: Urvasi in Love

Urvasi's thoughts:

I cannot stop looking at this handsome man...Oh Arjuna! You are so handsome and I must have you for myself, but how can I obtain your love? What should I do to get his attention? He is the most handsome man I've ever met and of course I want him to be my husband! Shall I seduce him with a new transformation or disguise myself and kidnap him?! I can't decide... I think I will try to seduce him and see if he wants to make love and marry me...

(looking through her wardrobe) Hmm... I think I will wear this transparent silk robe and meet him tonight! It's transparent enough for him to see... well of course enough for him to see my body! I will also spray this lovely perfume all over my body so that he will be attracted to my scent. He will surely love my appearance and then we will make love until the sunrise.

 The moon was shining bright. Urvasi approached Arjuna's room and knocked on his door. Urvasi was very anxious and hoped that Arjuna would respond to her sweet gesture. She had been a lonely woman for months now and wanted to make love with someone. Arjuna was the only attractive man that she had seen for several years and when they met. Her eyes were locked and she could not stop thinking about him. Could it be she was in love already? She had never felt this way in such a long time. Was this love at first sight? Urvasi was a curious woman and the only way to find out whether this was love or not is to approach Arjuna. Brave Urvasi took a deep breath and began to knock on his door.

The door opened with a slight creaking noise and Arjuna looked at Urvasi from head to toe.

"Um.. yes? May I help you?" said Arjuna.

"Arjuna, I am insanely attracted to you and I noticed you were looking at me earlier today. Shall we get together and have a wild wonderful night?" said Urvasi.

"Oh Urvasi, you are mistaken...I was looking at you earlier today because you remind me of my mothers Kunthi and Madri. "Your appearance caught me by surprise, and it reminded me how much I missed them." said Arjuna.

"Your mother?! I remind you of your mothers?! How dare you speak to me this way! I have tried so hard to seduce you, wearing this nearly see-through robe, and now you say I remind you of your mother?!" said Urvasi.

"I apologize for being so blunt but in fact you do remind me of my mothers. Please don't take it the wrong way. You are still a beautiful woman, just not for me." said Arjuna.

Urvasi's face turned red and she stood by Arjuna's door grunting under her breath. She had never felt so humiliated in her life.

"Well, Arjuna, since you have humiliated me by calling me your mother. I will curse you to become a eunuch forever and you will be forced to dance with the women!" said Urvasi.

Then with a swift of her hands she mumbled a chant and now Arjuna was cursed.

Urvasi cursing Arjuna: Urvasi

Author's Note:

I decided to do a story over Urvasi and Arjuna but in Urvasi's perspective. She was attracted to Arjuna but later rejected so she cursed him into a eunuch. In the story, Urvasi was a seductive and flirty woman. She tried to capture Arjuna's attention by wearing seductive clothes. Urvasi was so humiliated that she threw herself at a man who did not want her. The outcome resulted in Arjuna's curse in exile living with all women and becoming a eunuch. I kept the storyline pretty much the same as the book described it but added a lot more details. I added Urvasi's thoughts and how she planned on seducing him and making love to him all night. She was a promiscuous woman and would try to get anything she wants. I also added some dialogue of Urvasi and Arjuna to emphasize their conversations as a way to show the tensions between them. It was obvious that Urvasi was not happy with the rejection and took her frustration out on Arjuna for being too forward. Overall, I want to stick with the original story but added more details since the book only described a small part of their conversation. Urvasi was an apsara. The apsaras are beautiful supernatural beings that seduce men. I extended the story with some significant details that are not in the book such as her transparent silk robe and the perfume. I thought those items were essential to the story because it was a way for her to attract Arjuna. 

Bibliography: R.K. Narayan, The Mahabharata 1978

Week 12 Storytelling: Nala and Damayanti

Nala was the king of the Nishada people. He was a humble king and cared for his people. One day he met a beautiful woman named Damayanti and wanted her to be his wife. She was so gorgeous and everyone wanted her. The gods such as Indra, Agni, Varuna, and Yama all wanted Damayanti for themselves but Nala ended up winning Damyanti's heart. The two fell in love at first sight. This is how their love story begin.

"Nala! Nala! Come here. I'm sending you on a mission. I want you to tell Damayanti, the daughter of King Vidarbha that she must choose a husband soon. I want you to tell her the good characteristics of me. Forget the other gods! I am the suitable husband for her." said Indra.

"Yes sir, I will tell her that she must choose a husband and that you are the one for her." said Nala.

Nala began his journey to find Damayanti. His mission was to tell her that she must find a husband and persuade her that Indra is the right husband for her. He approached her place and knocked on the door. Damayanti slowly opened the door and the two of them stared into each other deeply. Nala had never seen any maiden so beautiful in his life. He was captured by her beauty. Her skin was glowing and her hair was long and luscious. 

"Err.. Oh hello... um my n-n-name is Nala. I was sent by Indra to tell you that you must f-f-find a husband." he stammered.

"Hello, my name is Damayanti. It's nice to meet you" she blushed and shyly looked away trying not to make direct eye contact.

Damayanti invited Nala to come inside and the two ended up having good conversations and shared common interests with each other. Nala knew that his mission was to tell her to choose a husband now he wanted her for himself. This girl was gorgeous and both of them have so much in common. He wanted to pursue her for himself.

"Damayanti, I was sent here to tell you that you must choose a husband to marry but you are so beautiful and we have so much in common. I have to tell you that I'm already in love with you and please please be my wife." Nala said.

"Oh Nala! I fell in love with you at first sight. When you knocked on my door I knew that there is no else I wanted but you." Damayanti said.

The two lovers decided that Nala must tell Indra and the other gods that Damayanti and him were going to be together. 

"Indra, I am sorry to tell you. I understand my mission was to tell Damayanti that you were the suitable husband for her. However, Damayanti and I fell in love and we want to be together." said Nala.

"How dare you steal the woman I'm going to marry! You snake! You did this on purpose! You think you are better than me? You think you are better than all of us gods?! Damayanti must be blind to have chose you! What qualities do you have?! How dare you!" Indra screamed.

Nala left and so Indra told the other gods what happened. The gods all decided to impersonate Nala and see who will win Damayanti's heart. They will trick and deceive Damayanti and the god that wins her heart will marry Damayanti. 

Nala and Damayanti: The Lovers

Author's Note: I decided to write a story about Nala and Damayanti. I wanted to show that they fell in love with each other at first sight. Although Nala was on a mission to tell Damayanti that she was supposed to marry one of the gods. He couldn't help but fall in love with her. Damayanti felt the same way and so Nala decided to tell Indra the truth. In the story, I emphasized the character of Nala and Damayanti. Both of them had similar interests and really understand each other. Nala did not plan to fall in love with Damayanti but the two ended up being in love. Indra was very angry and felt as if Nala had betrayed him. He felt like Nala seduced Damayanti and wanted her for himself. 

Biliography: William Buck, Mahabharata 

Week 12 Reading Diary B: Continuation of Buck's Mahabharata

p. 139-189

The story of Rishyashringa was pretty funny and interesting. It was definitely provoked by Urvashi even though she didn't mean to. It was because Vibhandaka was perverted and caught her bathing that he ejaculated and fell into the lake, so the deer swallowed and thus came out baby Rishyashringa. I thought that part was funny... if Vibhandaka wasn't so perverted maybe he could have prevented this from happening, but hey it makes the story even more interesting.

Another interesting part of this section's reading is the tale of Savitri. The reason why I liked it because it focused on a woman's perspective. Because Savitri was not impress with any men that was chosen for her she decided to search for the right man on her own. I thought Savitri was courageous to give Yama half her life just so her husband could come back to life. What a sacrifice she had made! I think the women in Indian epics had all made huge sacrifices for love and sometimes get the short end of the sick. It's not fair but it was how the story went.

Savitri made such a huge sacrifice not only for her husband but also her father-in-law. I thought it was so sweet and brave of her to put others first. I think this section of the reading is my favorite. It tells a story of a brave woman who was willing to put her love ones before herself. She was selfless and wanted her husband back.

Savitri's portrait: Savitri

Week 12 Reading Diary A: Continuation of Buck's Mahabharata

p.93-138

So the story continues with the dice game when Yudhishthira accepted the dice match even though he was warned by Arjuna that nothing good will come out of it. He ended up losing which sent the Pandavas and Draupaudi, and himself into exile. During the match I felt bad for Draupaudi. Not only was she mocked in front of these men but humiliated as well. She was pulled by the hair and being stripped by men. I thought that was such a terrible part in the story... how could they do such a thing! Poor Draupadi...

In this section of the story I really enjoyed reading about Nala and Damayanti's love story. Althought if they did love each other I didn't understand why Nala left that night and abandon her? There seems to be a similar pattern with the Ramayana story where the man leaves the woman. That dice game is such a trick. Everyone that plays it doesn't seem to have a happy ending.

It was kind of interesting when Nala got bitten by Karkotata and his poison had caused Nala to change his personality but good thing he was able to turn back into himself when Kali was driven away from his body. Then Nala and Damayanti were finally united and that was the end of this reading's section.

Overall, I enjoyed reading over Nala and Damayanti's character. I'm hoping there would be more stories about them later in the book.

Dice Game: Dice

Week 11 Famous Last Words

I can't believe Indian Epics class is about to be over... this class was so much and fun and I'm really enjoying blogging. This class had made me become a blogger. I also enjoyed reading all of the Indian Epics stories. I liked William Buck's version of the myths though. I didn't think Narayan's version was as detailed or specific like Buck. He did a better job at adding details which gave me a picture of what the characters are like. 

Everyone's portfolio and storybook was great and I liked all the stories. I think everyone was really creative. For this week's readings I'm glad Ganesha was in it. I feel like Ganesha is such an important symbol in Indian culture and I see the god everywhere, but we haven't learn about Ganesha as much. I wish there would be more stories about him.

This month in my other classes had been so stressful. I have so many research paper to write and I am not doing well in one of my classes that I have to put in more time and effort into my work. I can't wait until graduation. I am so ready to graduate and just find a job! However, I am not looking forward to moving back home with my parents. I've been having trouble finding roommates and a place to live. If I can't find anyone to live with then I'm force to move back home. That should be fun right? Oh well... maybe I can save some money and then move out somewhere. I was planning to move to Boston where my cousin lives. I've always liked it there, maybe I can start my career out there. 

One more month until graduation and I feel anxious as ever. I have so much on my mind like what I'm going to do with my life and my next step. It is all the beginning and I'm finally entering into the real world. It's so scary and at the same time pretty exciting. I am ready to grow up.

I am so ready for graduation!! Graduation

Week 11 Storytelling: The Tale of Ganesha's Head

Long ago...there were two gods, Shiva and Parvati. One day Parvati went to Mt. Kailesh for a bath and didn't want to be disturbed. She ordered Nandi to guard the doors and not let intruders inside. Shiva returned home and demanded Nandi to open the doors. Obediently, Nandi let her in and Shiva was furious because Nandi was more loyal to Parvati, so they decided to create a son (Ganesha) to guard the doors. However, Shiva decapitated Ganesha's head by mistake when she realized that he was not an intruder. In order to fix the mistake, she sent people out to look for a head facing north. From there they sacrificed an elephant's head and replaced it on Ganesha...

"Oh my goodness, what have I done?! My poor son, why didn't he speak up?! I had made such a terrible mistake... I ripped my son's head off and he is not breathing!" said Shiva.

"Parvati! Parvati! Please go and send people out and look for a new head! NOW! Poor Ganesha is not breathing and he must live!" said Shiva.

"It is you who made this mistake. How could you thought our son was an intruder?! Were you blind?! Did you not check to see who it was before slaughtering someone's head off? Is your bath THAT important that you can't have any distractions? I am telling you right now Shiva... you make this mistake again and Ganesha and I will leave you." said Parvati.

"I am sorry my love, I had made this horrible mistake but we must go and save our son now. Lets send our army out and sacrifice a new head for our boy!" said Shiva. 

"No, our army is too weak. We will send out Brahma, for he is the powerful creator and will surely help us find a head for our son!" said Parvati.

Shiva, Parvati, and Brahma searched far and wide for the perfect head. The head must be special and face north. They searched far and wide but still there was not a perfect head. Brahma continued his journey to find a head. While Parvati and Shiva rested under a tree. There Brahma spotted an elephant facing north. 

"This is perfect! I will cut that elephant's head off and give it to Shiva and Parvati!" said Brahma.

Brahma slowly approached the elephant. The elephant woke up from his nap and realized Brahma was staring at him. Then Brahma started to attack the elephant. The elephant made a loud noise and started to stop everywhere. Brahma dodging away from the elephant finally climbed up to a tree and used his bow and arrow to shoot at its back. The elephant shrieked and he climbed down from the tree and onto the elephant and used his knife to stab its heart. The elephant cried and fell on the ground. Brahma began to cut the elephant's head and rushed back to Parvati and Shiva.

"I've got the head now! Let's go and bring Ganesha back to life!" said Brahma.

The three gods rushed back and found Ganesha's body on his bed. They placed the head back on Ganesha and waited...All of a sudden Ganesha opened his eyes and gasped for air. Ganesha had finally come back to life!

Shiva and Ganesha: Ganesha's new head

Author's Note: The topic I chose for the story is about how Ganesha got his head. I thought that was an interesting part of Buck's version of the Mahabharata. The first paragraph I did a short summary of how Ganesha was born and the why Shiva decapitated Ganesha's head off. This time I did not write the story in anyone's perspective but how the story went. I emphasized how sorry Shiva was for cutting her own son's head off. As a parent she felt horrible for her mistake. So Shiva and Parvati asked Brahma for help. I also stated how angry Parvati was with Shiva and threatened to leave her if she made the same mistake again. I'm not quite sure if that was true in the actual myth but I decided to make it more dramatic that way. In the end, Brahma was able to find the perfect head for Ganesha and everyone was happy again that Ganesha came back to life.

Bibliography: William Buck, Mahabharata 

Week 11 Reading Diary B: Buck's Mahabharata

p. 49-91

The fight between Bhima and the demon was intense and surely Bhima is heroic and able to defeat the demon without any weapons. I thought it was kind of weird that Draupadi married all five of the Pandava brothers. I thought only men were allowed to have polygamous marriages but I guess in Indian epics it doesn't matter which gender.

I thought the part of Arjuna falling in love with Subhadra was really interesting and romantic. I wish there would be more details of their romantic lives together but the story focused a lot on the Pandava brothers especially Arjuna. The fire god Agni was significant in the burning of the forest and in a battle with Indra because she wants to eat the forest. I thought that was pretty interesting since it was a battle with fire and water. Arjuna was able to get rid of the clouds with his bow and arrow. Arjuna was such a great warrior!

Agni the Fire God: Agni wants to eat the forest

Week 11 Reading Diary A: Buck's Mahabharata

p. 1-47

So far I enjoyed reading Buck's version of Mahabharata better than Narayan's. I really liked in the beginning how the book mentioned the story of Ganesha. I noticed that Ganesha had been a significant symbol in Indian epics but we have yet to learn the story of Ganesha. I'm glad this book talked about how Ganesha played a role in Mahabharata. I was shocked reading the part where Shiva ripped Ganesha's real head off! Poor Ganesha... I actually thought he was born with an elephant head. I also realized that Ganesha is a male and not female, for some reason I had always thought of Ganesha as a female.

I also thought the part of the snake sacrifice was pretty interesting. If I recall I don't remember Narayan's version mentioned the part of Ganesha or snake sacrifice in Mahabharata. The whole beginning of the story revolve around the concept of karma. The beginning of the Mahabharata began with the aftermath of the snake sacrifice. Janamejaya finally agreed to release the snake and this where the part Vyasa tells the story have his companion recite the Mahabharata.

I really liked the details the book provided for the readers. I thought Buck's version emphasized more on the characters and gives people a clear glimpse of what characters or like. For instance, the part of Arjuna and how he was the best pupil of Drona. Arjuna is a skilled warrior. So far I like the characters of Ganesha and Arjuna. I wish we could learn more about Ganesha and his story.

Ganesha's elephant head: Ganesha

I posted a lot of pictures of Ganesha but I really like the pictures. 

Week 10: Famous Last Words

It is almost the end of the semester... about one more month until graduation. I am ready to get out of school but at the same time I am nervous about finding a job.

I can't believe Indian Epics class is almost over. I really enjoyed this class. There is a lot of work and reading in the class but most of the material is interesting and fun to read. I'm also getting use to blogging and fixing up my writing skills. I've mentioned my horrible habit of getting my past and present tenses confused but I feel like it is getting better. At least I hope it is! I have issues with comma splices too! It is kind of embarrassing that I'm still having grammar issues and I'm a senior in college but this class really helped me on improving my skills. I noticed a lot of interesting storybooks and portfolios too. Everyone is creative and put in a lot of effort into their writings. I think everyone did a wonderful job so far.

So far life has been pretty stressful especially with school. I am not doing well in one of my classes and well I really need to try harder. The class is hard and the professor expects a lot of the students but with effort I'm sure I'll be able to pull myself up again. Other than that I've been working on topics for research papers and preparing for finals. I know it sounds early but with so much on my plate right now... it is better to prepare ahead. Graduation is coming soon and I haven't even found a job yet. I'm planning to get my masters in legal studies but debating on whether or not to stay at OU. I kind of want to explore different cities outside of Oklahoma. I lived here all my life and need a new experience yet I don't want to leave my friends and family here...

Yesterday, I found out that my best friend since grade school is moving to Dallas for her job. I am a little sad and Dallas isn't that far away but the thought of her leaving makes me sad. I am happy she found a great job but with her moving away we won't be able to meet frequently and have our Sunday brunches anymore. I guess that is the part of growing up... people moving away.

This is a personal photo of mine. 

My friend Lan the one I grew up with is on the left and my other best friend Trung is on the right.

Storytelling Week 10: Arjuna as Brihannala

(Arjuna's thoughts)

Oh that Urvashi! How dare she cursed me to become an eunuch! I rejected her nicely and even offered her a compliment that she looked like my mother and now she had cursed me in dancing and singing with women! I need to relax... I am mad right now but I must make the most of it.

(Dancing with the women for a year)

It's been a year now and all I had done was performing with these lovely ladies. Everyone is so nice and treated me like a sister. I had been hiding the truth that I'm a man for the longest time. I also want to see if I can return home and become a warrior again. I will ask my father Indra but first I must tell these ladies the truth. They had been nothing but nice to me and hiding the truth about my real gender makes me feel guilty...

(Walking up to the women)

Ladies, there is something I want to tell you for the longest time now and it is a long story. I don't even know where to begin. First, I am indeed a man disguised as a woman for awhile now.

(Gasps in the crowd of women)

I know... I know.. please just explain. I was cursed by Urvashi because I rejected her love and called her my mother. She was furious and cursed me to become an eunuch for the rest of my life. My father Indra reversed it to one year and now my time is over. I tried to accept the fact that I will be with you beautiful women forever and indeed the past year I've spent with everyone was wonderful. We performed together and traveled all around India. I am happy to call you all my sisters but I'm not satisfied being an eunuch. My real name is Arjuna and I am part of the Pandavas and a true warrior. I want to return being myself and I hope you can all understand that.

"Oh Brihannala! I mean... Arjuna we will support you no matter what! We've been so close these past five years and we all want nothing more than to wish you happiness!" said one of the women.

(All the ladies looked at each other and nod their heads at Arjuna)

Thank you my friends! I hope you all know how much you mean to me but now I must go and find my father Indra to see if he can reverse this curse! I am planning to leave tomorrow morning and begin my journey back home. I will miss everyone and wish everyone well in their lives!

(The ladies embraced each other and the next morning Arjuna began his journey back home)

Arjuna as Brihannala: Eunuch

Author's Note: I decided to do a story over Arjuna as Brihannala when he was cursed by Urvashi and the experiences he had as an eunuch. Arjuna was a positive person and tried embrace the idea of being a woman dancer. Although he found a way to reverse the curse and made it only to one year. He enjoyed his time as a woman and build relationships with the dancers. However, he missed being a warrior and wanted to return home. The story shows connections he had with the women and their friendship. He finally revealed the truth about his real sexuality and the women were not mad at him. Instead they supported him and knew he was always going to be a warrior deep down. I wanted to show real emotions in the story and emphasized on how Arjuna had to tell them the truth. He did not want to leave on bad terms. 

Bibliography: R.K. Narayan The Mahabharata

Reading Diary B Week 10: Narayan's Mahabaharta

p.133-179

Okay... so this part of the battle is pretty intense and bloody. It was a little confusing at first with all the names and everyone kind of fighting at the same time. So I had to go back and read it over again along with the reading guides. I'm a little confused on the part of after Bhima killed Ashwatthaman he called him an elephant? What does the elephant mean? and like the battle scenes are disgusting! they are decapitating heads and mutilating the bodies! And the part where Bhima drinks the blood after killing Duryodhana... I mean gross! What was the point of drinking the blood? Was like a symbol of defeat and you have to drink the blood as some sort of recognition of victory?

So the end of the battle it seems as though everyone is dying... even the Pandavas. The city of Dwaraka is swallowed by the sea and Krishna is killed by the hunter? Well in the end Arjuna survived and had a son who became the ruler of Hastinpura, which continued the Pandavas' bloodline.

So Narayan's Mahabaharta was quite confusing to me. There were so many names kind of thrown all at once. The battle was confusing as well, people were fighting each other and dying. It was chaotic reading the book even the reading guides weren't as clear as I thought. I'm hoping Buck's version would be better to read. I sure like Buck's version of the Ramayana better so hopefully it would be clear!

Bhishma: Mahabaharta

Reading Diary A Week 10: Narayan's Mahabharata

p.85-131

In this part of the book, the most interesting part is the voice in the lake. Nakula goes and find the lake and was forced answer questions before drinking it. However, he refused and the consequences for him was death. Then his brothers followed him: Sahedeva, Arjuna, and Bhima. All of them ignored answering the questions before drinking from the lake and died. Thankfully, Yudhishthira was able to follow the directions and later called upon Yama (the god of death) to revive his brothers but the result was 13 years of exile.

After 12 years the brothers began their journey where they disguise in King Virata's court and poor Draupadi got raped... It is kind of sad that a lot of these women in Indian Epics get raped or kidnapped in the story. Well in this situation it's a good thing that Bhima was able to kill Kichaka. I mean what a horrible thing to do!

The cattle raid was also an interesting part! I really like the character of Arjuna! It was pretty intense and Arjuna won the battle with Drona!

The Pandavas: Indian Epics

Week 9: Famous Last Words

This week was pretty hectic and since Spring Break started I've been busy doing other things and catching up on the rest of my homework for this class.

Today Spring Break is officially over and classes start tomorrow. The month of April is going to be crazy since every single class I am taking require at least a research paper and they are all due in April. I better start on them. I also have a second midterm this week and I am not prepared since I have been out of town for Spring Break. Sometimes I don't understand why teachers assign homework during the break. It's like enjoy the break but not really because you have to study. On the bright side, school will be done in about a month and I am finally graduating! Now the scary part is I have to find a job and a new place to move into... my summer is going to be busy with applying jobs and looking for a new apartment.

So far in Indian Epics class I've been a little behind on my project because there were some grammar issues in my stories. I keep getting my past and present tense mixed up and so the revising on one of my stories took forever. I need to do some more extra credit to make up for it.

However, looking through all the projects in the class a lot of people did a wonderful job on their stories. There were some unique storybooks and portfolios that I really enjoyed reading. Some people had small grammar issues but I can't really criticize since I have the same problem as well. There was this one storybook I thought was interesting because whoever made it added videos and the theme was for children. It was called Ganesha's children or something like that and I thought it was such a clever and cute idea!

I've been reading the Elite Daily a lot outside of school reading. The articles are pretty interesting and fun to read. One of the articles I read was called something a long the lines of The Power of Negative Thinking? I think that was the title but I don't really remember, it was basically describing how pessimist people can actually see reality better than those who are optimistic. Pessimists are better prepared for what is ahead of them because they see the worst situation possible while optimists feel safe in their environment and sometimes can be oblivious to certain situations.

This is a picture of the Dallas, Texas skyline. I went there for Spring Break. Source: Dallas, Texas

Week 9 Reading Diary B: Continuation of Narayan's Mahabharata

p. 41-83

The story goes on with Duryodhana getting mad that the Pandavas are still alive and they built a city Indraprastha and Yudishthira is crowned. I thought the game of dice in the book was interesting part of this section. Yudishthira ended up gambling his brothers away and Draupadi as well. I mean how intense is the game for him to sell his siblings for the game? Not a very smart idea if you tell me. Also the part where Duhshasana dragging Drapaudi by her hair?! Wow... I can't believe how rude and disgusting they treat women and then forcing her to undress. It is like they have no respect for Draupadi and now she is summoned to be an object of this dice game so that these people can degrade her. That is just awful!

It is clear to see that Yudishthira has no self-control in the game and he ended up losing the game, so now the Pandavas are going to exile. How dumb of him to lose everything knowing the exile was 13 years and poverty. So far, I think Arjuna is probably the best character in the book. He has self-control when he was sentenced to live with the women. However, I think it is easier for him since he was castrated and so luckily for him he was tempted by all the women. He later joined the Pandavas and becomes familiar with weapons.

Arjuna using Gandiva: Arjuna

Week 9 Reading Diary A: Narayan's Mahabharata

p. 1-39

This week we are starting to read Narayan's version of Mahabharata and the beginning was a little confusing to me. There are a lot of affairs going and and birthing of children that I need to slow my reading to get the names in my head. The start of the chapter began with Shantanu and Ganga, where Shantanu the king falls in love with a woman who drowned her children... wow talk about being a great mother but good thing the King stopped that from happening on the eighth child Bhishma.

The story goes on about Shantanu and him falling in love with the fisherman's daughter but the father objected and then later they both have children. An interesting part of the book and it made me laughed a little bit was the part of Satyavati smelling like fish and Parashara changed her smell into a perfume. I wonder if Shantanu would still be with her if Parashara didn't change her smell, would he still like her for who she is?

I thought the part of Pandu was pretty sad, he was cursed because he shot the deer while it was having sex. The deer happened to be a disguise and cursed Pandu that he would die having sex. Now Pandu cannot have children with his wives which is pretty sad because they can't start a family because of a curse. How awful is that curse? Not being able to make love to your significant other or in this case "others" but have to die while doing so. What a horrible curse!

So far I enjoyed reading the first part of the book, although there are some warming up to do with the names. I can get the different characters down. First part caught me by surprise because there were so many affairs going on and birthing of the gods that I had to pace my reading and go back and read the reading guides. I am so thankful for the reading guides! It was such a big help.

The Mahabharta: Mahabharata

Week 8: Commenting Review Week

Going back through all my comments I've found a lot of positive feedback from my peers. It is a great experience being able to connect to my classmates online. I really enjoyed reading all my comments from everyone and I want to thank all my classmates for being so nice and positive. I think I can definitely relate to many of them just because we are all students and going through the same problems. Moreover, I can relate to the seniors who are graduating this semester! Whoo hoo OU 2015! My three years at OU had been wonderful and I am sad to be leaving college pretty soon but more excited about the real world. There are many fears inside of me about the real world but it is normal for college graduates. We go through anxiety looking for the right job and ponder about what our lives will be like in the next five years. Some of us probably haven't figured out what to do yet or whether or not graduate school is for them. Life is scary but exciting as well, there is still so much to learn in this world and I'm ready for it.

I really enjoyed this class, not only do we get to learn about Indian Epics but we can connect with other students through online. Reading other people's blogs helped me understand different people and the creativity in them. I was fascinated with people's storytellings and everyone is so creative! I think commenting on other people's post help us improve ourselves and learn from our mistakes. Positive or negative feedback are good things and can help us learn and grow!

University of Oklahoma: OU

I chose this picture because well...I'm almost graduating!

Week 8 Review Week: Writing a Review

I think one of my greatest writing achievements in this class was being able to create or makeup a story with my own imagination. I never knew that I could be creative. In the beginning of the class, I was kind of scared because I didn't know what to expect and my first storytelling I messed up because I made a completely different story that wasn't related to Indian Epics. I realized that I had to stick to the storyline but a new rendition with my own twist to it. I was relieved because there was no way I could keep making up different stories every time, and it would be too confusing for everyone to read. 

I am getting a lot better at creating new stories and enjoyed reading the Ramayana, although I did leave some harsh comments on my opinion about Rama's character. I really liked the novel especially Buck's version. Despite Rama I liked almost every single character in the book even Ravana. I thought he was a good antagonist and really pumped the story up, without him there would be any battles or Sita's drama for Rama... lol that rhymed. 

I still need to work on some of my writings. I tend to get past tense and present tense confused which isn't something new. I've been told this several times but I still get them mixed up! Especially when I type so fast. Moreover, one of my favorite storytellings that I created was probably the last one which is Week 7 Storytelling Sita in the Assembly. It is a story coming from Sita's perspective of how she felt when Rama abandoned her. 

I used this picture in my recent storytelling post

The Beauty of SIta

Week 8: Reading Review Week

I think one of my favorite part of the William Buck's Ramayana was the section of Hanuman and how loyal he was to Rama. In my reading diary Week 6 Reading Diary, I discussed a lot about Hanuman's character and how clever he was to hep Rama. I think his character is very valuable in the story just because without him, Rama wouldn't be able to accomplish his mission to find Sita. Throughout the book I had questioned the character of Rama, whether he is as noble and brave the myth described him. However, in my opinion I am not fond of his character. Even though he is the protagonist and the tale saw him as a brave god. I viewed differently. He is not powerful if it wasn't for Hanuman and his animal friends, he wouldn't be able to slay Ravana and most importantly the fact that he abandoned Sita while she was pregnant Week 7 Reading Diary. That part of the book really shocked me because he worked so hard to get her back and then left her because of a few rumors? Rama the "brave god" is scared of some little rumor? Not to mention that he wasted his friends time in helping him save Sita. I would be so angry with Rama if I was Hanuman. Rama is selfish and only cared about his reputation and how others would see him.

Obviously, I didn't enjoy Rama's character but I did enjoy reading Buck's version of the book better. I thought it was more clear and detailed. I can understand the words better and it helped with my reading posts. I used a lot of my reading diaries to help me with my storytelling and not only that but his version of the book gave a lot of details especially about Ravana that I find it fascinating to read about.

This picture was from my Week 3 Storytelling of Hanuman: The Great Hanuman

Week 7 Storytelling: Sita in the Assembly

As Janaka walks away.. I am finally alone in the room with Rama. Oh Rama my dearly beloved.. Should I be angry with him for abandoning me while I was pregnant with his two twins? But somehow I cannot stay mad at him. Look at that handsome face... I love him.

However, the fact that he abandoned me was so heartless. How could he do this to me! Even after that fire test, he still couldn't trust me? What a coward for believing those rumors! He cared more about his reputation than loving me, but I am in love him.. oh why must I love Rama? I'll just pretend to smile so that no one sees the pain I am hiding. I will just smile.

I looked at Sumantra, Trijata, Rakshashi, and Lakshama and smiled. Then I see Hanuman all dressed in his finest clothes wearing the pearl necklace I gave him. Oh Hanuman! I couldn't help but smile so brightly. He looked at me and smiled back. His hair was brushed backed like a halo. That monkey sure knows how to make a good impression!

Finally, I looked up and there he was sitting on his throne... my love Rama. He looked at me and just stared blankly. In my mind, I was imagining Rama jumping off his throne and running towards me and then we would embrace each other ever so tightly but he didn't. He just sat there. What should I do to get his attention? Is Rama still skeptical about me living with Ravana?! It wasn't even my fault that I was kidnapped but he would never understand this! I must do something to prove my innocence once more.

Rama! Let me prove my innocence here in front of everyone! I cried. He looked at me and said "I give you permission."

In my mind.. I know that this isn't right. I have tested myself before but Rama still won't believe me. I love him so much so I have to prove my innocence. I wanted nothing more than to be with my love till the day I die, so I will call out to the Mother Earth.

"Mother Earth, if I have not been faithful to Rama, take me home and hide me!" I screamed. Then I started to hear the floor rumble and the ground was shaking vigorously like an earthquake.. She is here! Mother Earth is here!

The Beautiful Sita: Sita calling out for Mother Earth

Author's Note: I decided to make my story in Sita's perspective after her abandonment. I thought the topic of Sita in the Assembly would fit perfectly into the theme of my story. I want to focus the topic of Sita's painful feelings after Rama left her alone to raise their children. However, Sita still loves Rama and would always try to prove herself that she is innocent to win Rama back. I thought about changing the story into how much Sita hates Rama for leaving her but it wasn't really Sita. She was always loyal to Rama and is madly in love with him. So as sad as it is.. I made the story into how Sita would do anything for him to prove her innocence. She tried so hard to hide her painful feelings of the abandonment by smiling in front of everyone. She wanted to please Rama, knowing how much he cared for his reputation, she was willing to do another test just so that they could finally be together. That is all Sita ever wanted was to be together with Rama but somehow rumors and doubts had got in the way of their love. In the end, Sita does not blame Rama for leaving her although she should. Sita never once was mad at Rama.. only hurt by the fact that he would leave her.

Bibliography: William Buck Ramayana 1976

Week 7 Reading Diary B: The End of Ramayana

p. 374-432

Oh wow.. in my opinion I did not like how the book ended. I mean how could Rama abandoned Sita?! After all he went through fighting for her? He goes off and left her while she was pregnant with his two sons? Just because people are gossiping about Sita living with Ravana? It wasn't even her fault that she was kidnapped and took forever for Rama to save her. If anyone should be blamed it should be Rama! Although Sumantra believed that the result of Sita's banishment was a curse, it was still very wrong for Rama to abandoned his wife especially when she was pregnant. I thought Rama was depicted to be a hero? A self-respected man and one who truly loves Sita? I mean isn't that the reason he was fighting to get her back? Or was he more worried of how people will look at him? It seems to me Rama cared more about being king and how people value him then his love for Sita. I really can't believe Sita's abandonment is part of this book... Rama is supposed to be seen as a hero but willing to leave his wife just because of some gossip? I do not value the character of Rama and I don't think I ever had in this entire book. He was seen as a hero but the real hero of the story should be Hanuman. Ugh... this really frustrates me.. Poor Sita poor Sita.

I thought the part of Hanuman showing his loyalty to Rama was intense. I mean he had Rama's name written in his bones and thought the bracelet wasn't valued enough.. I really admire Hanuman's loyalty. Hanuman is one of the greatest characters in Indian Epics in my opinion. Throughout the whole book of Ramayana, he had done nothing wrong besides being on Rama's side every step of the way and even until the end. I thought it was a little cheap that Rama would give Hanuman the ring that he was suppose to give Sita. After Hanuman ripped his flesh with Rama's name engraved in his bones, he goes off and gives him the ring that was meant for Sita? And oh yeah that he abandoned! I have very strong feelings reading the end of this book. It is clear that I do not like Rama's character even though he is the protagonist of the whole story.

The Mother Sita: Sita

Week 7 Reading Diary A: Rama defeats Ravana

p. 325-373

This section of the book is the final battle between Rama and Ravana. Rama finally slays Ravana and now Lanka is in the hands of Vibhishana! Hanuman and Sugriva had finally battled the demons and won and Rama sends Hanuman give a message to Sita. Finally Rama and Sita are able to unite. How exciting is that?!

I thought it was kind of sad when Ravana died and Mandodari cried because she loved her husband so much. Despite of all the bad deeds Ravana had done and was willing to fight Rama till death for Sita... Mandodari still cared for him. I noticed in Indian Epics women aren't recognized for the sacrifices they made. Most of the women in the book of Ramayana showed pain and sadness in these women. They are either depicted as sad and weak or manipulative like Kaikeyi. Now Agni the fire god is about to prepare the fire test to show Sita's purity in which she had to prove her innocence to Rama.

Rama's coronation was significant in the book. It symbolized his journey and bravery in the Ramayana. I thought it was pretty intense when Rama had to rush home so that Bharata wouldn't kill himself... I mean is it really necessary to kill yourself if Rama doesn't come back in time? That just puts more pressure on Rama and what if it took him longer to defeat Ravana and he couldn't make it at the designated time, then Aroydha wouldn't have a king? Honestly, I thought that was a stupid move of Bharata pressuring Rama to come back or he will commit suicide.

I thought the Pushpaka was interesting and symbolized the arrival of Rama's victory. Everything seems to be coming together after Ravana's death. Sita is preparing for the fire test and Rama is about to be coronated. The end is near!

Sita preparing for fire test: Sita

Week 6 Storytelling: Hanuman the Cat

"Lanka is so beautiful! Look at the white sand and freshly green hills. This place is absolutely gorgeous and the flowers near the bright blue rivers are breathtaking! I cannot believe that Ravana lives here but I must destroy it all! Ravana had abducted my best friend's wife and now Rama is devastated over Sita's disappearance. Ravana had ruin our lives and now I must cause trouble in his kingdom, but how would I do it without being notice? I need to find a way to reach Sita first! I have to tell her that Rama is looking for her and to not lose faith in him! I need to meet her so she can tell me what to do."

"Hmm.. I know I will disguise myself as a cat! If they see me, a cat roams free at night, and may explore wherever he is curious to go. I will begin to shape-shift myself into long-haired cat!"

*transforming into a cat*
Hanuman now realizes that he has turned into a cat.

"Oh wow, look at me! Look at my tail and my fur is so long! Oh and the vision! I can see better in the dark, this is amazing! Now, no time to waste admiring my beautiful self, I must go find Sita!"

Hanuman runs as fast as he can to enter Lanka but he was eventually stopped. Hanuman started to think about what it will be like if Rama and Sita found each other. The two would be so happy and all Hanuman wanted was for Rama to be happy.

"In my head I kept thinking about Rama and Sita.. oh how happy will they be when they find each other. I am running as fast as I can.. oh wait what is that in front of me? A woman?"

"You cannot enter me you little cat!" said the dark-haired woman. "I am Lanka and ruled by the hands of Ravana!" said Lanka. She kicked Hanuman. Hanuman was furious, this woman was not going to let him enter.

I cannot believe this woman just kicked me! I have to find Sita so I'm going to punch her!

Finally I have entered into Lanka, now where is Sita? I see Pushpaka and his fly chariot but where oh where is Sita?! I know.. maybe she is in Ravana's bedroom!

As Hanuman rushes into Ravana's bedroom, he was hoping to find Sita in there but instead she was nowhere to be found. He looked at Ravana's miserable wives...

"Oh these poor women.." he said. "But where is Sita?! Where is Sita?!"

Rama and Hanuman's friendship: Best Buddies

Author's Note: I decided to make a story of Hanuman's experience as a cat. I did put a lot of dialogue and narrated a few sentences just to show Hanuman's thoughts. I thought Hanuman becoming a cat was significant in the book because he was clever enough to transform himself to get into Lanka. Hanuman knew that he would never be able to get into Ravana's lair if he remained his personal imagine so he thought a cat was a good disguise. In the book, Hanuman said a cat was able to roam free at night and can quickly move around. I decided to add some descriptions of him being a cat and how he was able to get pass Lanka. In addition to his experience, I added how important it was for him to find Sita. His mission was to find her and let her know that Rama is here to save her. Throughout the story I indicated the importance of finding Sita as well as him picturing what it wouls be like if Rama and Sita had found each other. I stated his thoughts in the beginning of the story how Rama was his best friend and the importance of their friendship. Throughout the story Hanuman was concentrated in finding Sita, he was loyal to Rama and knew what his mission was. For my picture, I noticed there were a lot of cat pictures of Hanuman and even though my story was about Hanuman as a cat I wanted to add a different picture. I found one of Rama and Hanuman and thought it was a good painting of their friendship so I chose that one instead.

Bibliography: William Buck, Ramayana 1976